What is the code for a window in a shower?

Author: Kathleen Bogisich  |  Last update: Friday, June 26, 2026

To protect occupants from injury in the event of a fall, the International Residential Code requires that glass less than 60 in. above the walking or standing surface and within 60 in. horizontally of the edge of showers and tubs have safety glazing.

Is it OK to have a window in a shower?

Of course you can! But like any home improvement project, it requires careful planning, consideration, and a dash of creativity. When done right, a shower window can be a beautiful addition to your bathroom, bringing in natural light, fresh air, and a unique touch of character.

What is the code for a bathroom window?

Under section 1203.4. 2.1, California's building code requires that any bathroom that contains a bathtub, shower, spa or similar, will require ventilation by an exhaust fan. In a similar vein, under section 1203, any property designed for occupation must be naturally ventilated by windows, doors and other openings.

How high does a window need to be in a shower?

You already have mirrors over vanities and tile walls in your shower. When the ceilings are tall enough – say 10', the windows can go above the mirrors and the shower. I like a series of three, two-foot square windows above the vanity. You can also place high a single high transom over the shower.

Can you have a shower without a window?

yes. it is not necessary for a bathroom to have a window. However, you will have to install an extractor fan or an artificial light according to most government laws. so, if you are someone redecorating and deciding against one, contact a local authority regarding laws of bathroom ventilation.

How To Protect Shower Window From Water (Cheap And Easy)

Do shower rooms need a window?

Well-ventilated bathrooms are a must for a reason. Excessive moisture in the air has to be able to escape to keep the bathroom air dry and allow moisture in the floor to evaporate fast enough. Without a proper ventilation system, you will be met with several problems in the long run.

How do you make a window private in a shower?

Any kind of 100 percent waterproof window treatment material can be used in the shower. You'll find many to choose from: PVC shutters, vinyl roller blinds, cellular honeycomb shades (which also insulate the window), and plastic mini-blinds are just a few.

What kind of window can you put in a shower?

If you still choose to add a shower window, after reading through warranty information about exposure to high-moisture environments, fiberglass windows are best suited for moisture-prone environments. Pella's fiberglass is designed to provide outstanding resistance to water — in fact, it will never rot or corrode.

How to protect a window in a shower from water spray?

5 Ways to Waterproof a Window in a Shower
  1. Add a Shower Curtain on the Window Side.
  2. Remove or Replace Window Trim.
  3. Fix or Replace the Window Sill.
  4. Install a Vinyl or Fiberglass Window.
  5. Install a Glass Block Window.

What is the distance between shower and window?

Apparently for enclosed showers, doesn't matter the length of the shower, all walls have to be water proof. Which I think is a joke, it should be 1.5m from the shower connection. So if a window is lower than 1800mm within the shower area, you need a performance solutution report.

What is the code for a window?

These windows must have a minimum net clear opening of at least 5.7 square feet, an unobstructed height of at least 24 inches, and a width of at least 20 inches. The distance of a window from the floor (also known as the "window sill") should be at most 44 inches.

Is it okay for a bathroom to not have a window?

The main reason your bathroom needs at least one window is to remove moisture from the air. Removing air moisture prevents wood rot and can also prevent illnesses among the members of your household.

Do windows in showers need to be tempered?

When There Are Legal Requirements. According to International Building Code, if you have any fixture with a door (bathtub, shower, sauna, etc.), any window less than 60 inches above the floor must be tempered.

Why do builders put windows in showers?

Windows in showers improve bathroom ventilation, allowing moisture to escape and reducing the chances of mold and mildew on tiles, grout and other surfaces, according to Kevin McLaughlin, owner of Heritage Exteriors in Upton, Massachusetts.

Should bathroom windows be open or closed when showering?

To let moisture escape, leave your bathroom window open during showering and for at least 15 minutes after. If your bathroom doesn't have any windows, leave the door open instead. Some plants, including spider plants and snake plants, can also help remove moisture from the air.

Can you have a shower with a curtain?

Choose a shower curtain instead of a door to save money.

Even the best shower curtains are more affordable than shower doors. So, shower curtains are an excellent option if you are shopping on a budget – (and who isn't?). Another benefit of shower liners is that you can replace them cheaply and easily.

How much does it cost to waterproof a shower window?

How Much Does It Cost to Waterproof a Window in a Shower. Believe it or not, sealing a window in the shower can be relatively inexpensive. Your national average cost is $44 to $108 per window. The materials are typically the cheaper part of the process.

How do you make a window watertight?

For exterior windows, choose a waterproof and weather-resistant caulk. A silicone or latex-based window seal works well for most applications. Make sure it's compatible with the materials you're sealing, such as wood, vinyl, or aluminium.

How do I make my shower window not see through?

How to Add Privacy to Your Clear Glass Shower Screens?
  1. Use Temporary Frosted Vinyl Film.
  2. Etch Designs into the Glass.
  3. Use Frosted Glass Spray Paint.
  4. Install New Textured or Patterned Glass.
  5. Apply Specialty Wallpaper.
  6. Apply Frosted Film Window Clings.
  7. Use Liquid Glass Frosting Spray.
  8. Hang a Fabric Shower Curtain Liner.

How to make a window in a shower private?

Ideas for Maximizing Privacy in Your Shower. Window treatments such as blinds, shades, shutters, and drapery can help you block your window temporarily to give you more privacy.

What is the best glass for shower windows?

If you're thinking of completely renovating your bathroom, clear glass is your best choice. You can rest assured knowing that your clear glass shower enclosure will stay stylish for years. One of the perks of clear glass shower doors is their ease of maintenance.

What are cased windows?

A casement window is a window that has a hinge on one side, allowing it to crack open in an outwardly direction for ventilation. It is different from a sliding window, in that it is attached to the window frame and swings open. A definition of the word casement is a window sash that opens in hinges at the side.

Can you put blinds in a shower window?

Vinyl blinds are known as the best choice for shower windows because of their ability to resist moisture.

Can people see through frosted glass at night?

No, you cannot see through frosted glass at night, as it is designed to scatter light and blur images.

How to cover an open bathroom window?

Hang Curtains or Blinds

Another simple option is hanging curtains or blinds on the window. Choose fabrics and materials that suit the bathroom's style. For privacy, select tightly woven, opaque fabrics like heavy cotton, linen, or faux silk. Solid curtains in light colors can give a soft, diffused lighting effect.

Previous article
How do I stop my toilet water from rising?
Next article
What should you not use on porcelain tiles?